Former Alabama football star John Croyle is used to a change of plans.
So when the heavy rains that crossed Alabama and Georgia on Thursday halted his original intent to fly into Augusta from his ranch in Gadsden, Ala., he called an audible and drove through the day to make it to the Rotary Club of Augusta Founders Dinner.
The inaugural event, which president Bob Evans said will continue as an annual tradition, brought together Augusta rotarians to hear Croyle's story. The former defensive end on one of Paul "Bear" Bryant's national championship teams had a clear path to the NFL as a 19-year-old star, but Croyle instead pursued a different dream.
He created the Big Oak Ranch and has made it his home since 1974. More than 1,800 abused or neglected children have used the ranch as a refuge since then, and Croyle's message to more than 150 guests Thursday night matched the Augusta Rotary Club's mission.
"Our motto is, 'Service Above Self,' " Evans said. "When I saw his clip and heard what he's done, I couldn't think of anyone that represented what we do more than him."
Croyle, who said his plans will take him to Jackson, Miss. and New Orleans before the week ends, spoke of his decision to leave football to help others, and the 35 years of service that followed.
"I've never, ever, ever been depressed," he said. "I ran into a friend the other day. He had a Super Bowl ring, but he didn't have anything else. I don't have a Super Bowl ring, but I have everything else. If your priorities, purpose and passion line up, you're going to be fine."
Evans said he got the idea for the function from his days with the Rotary Club in Thomson, which held a similar annual event.
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